DONATION | CLAY MIXER REPAIRS CAMPAIGN

Did you know that Pewabic’s iconic clay mixer was manufactured and shipped to the pottery in 1912? This iconic machine has seen a lot over the years. It produced the clay used to create countless art tiles along with architectural tiles for public and private installations for over a Century.  We used the same mixer to make tile for dozens of libraries and churches, The Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit People Mover, Comerica Park and Little Caesars Arena, in addition to thousands of homes, schools, hospitals, and businesses throughout Metro Detroit and across the nation. 

This 112 years old historic mixer is now in need of a major repair. Will you help us restore this workhorse and extend its useful life for another 100 years?

Over time, the main shaft that runs the mixer has worn to a point where friction is damaging the two large drive gears. To restore the system, we’ll draw upon traditional metal-working techniques to cast new drive gears, replace the main vertical and horizontal shafts, and re-pour the babbitt bearings that allow the shafts to turn. Restoring this historic clay mixer will preserve a key component of our pottery operations and enhance one of the most unique and popular elements of our studio tours.

The Michigan Arts & Culture Council awarded Pewabic grant funds towards the project and we need to raise an additional $50,000 to be able to complete the repairs.

Can we count on you to help?

Your gift will ensure that Pewabic can keep producing the clay that tiles Detroit and inspiring spaces across the country, preserving a tradition of craftsmanship that extends back more than a century.